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Wascal and AcupunctureIn "bunny" years, Wascal is an old man (he is nearing his 10th birthday!). And just as with humans, advanced age has left it's mark on Wascal.
A few years ago, I noticed that Wascal wasn't really moving like he usually did. To say that he was an active rabbit would be an understatement. As a youngster, would get a running start down the hall, careen off the living room wall, do a 180° jump and spin and then dash back down the hall to begin all over again. When the "dancing" seemed to stop, I took him to a vet. An X-ray revealed that sometime much earlier he had dislocated his right hip. He had then compensated by leaning more on his left side. But by this time, even that didn't work. Arthritis had begun in his hip and was spreading up his spine. There wasn't much that could be done for him on a long-term basis that would not compromise his immune or digestive system (I tried baby aspirin for the pain but it upset his tummy). As a member of the House Rabbit Society's national and local, North Georgia, chapter, I had learned of Loving Touch Animal Center and their natural approach to treat disease. I thought it was worth a shot, but I didn't hold my breath. When I first stepped through the front door at LTAC, I knew it was a special place. The staff was professional, friendly and patient (to listen to the life story of my special bun). Even the resident critters were special—one of the cats was snoozing atop the bird cage and the birds didn't seem to care at all! Dr. Pat Zook gently examined Wascal and watched him try to walk. After looking over the X-rays I brought with me, she suggested acupuncture treatments to treat his arthritis. She never promised miracles but I thought it was worth a try. I have to tell you that I am now a believer in acupuncture. After his first treatment, Wascal was more "active," not running around, but alert and active. Within just a few weeks, he was up and running—yes, running across the room! I was ready to have Dr. Pat treat me!! After treatments every week, Wascal reached the point where he stayed strong. I only brought him in when his strength slipped a bit (usually at the change of the seasons—Spring has a very noticeable effect on him). It's been over two years now that Wascal began acupuncture. Aging has caught up with him and now he can't get up and run. But he doesn't seem to be in any pain and is just as happy as he ever was. Now I bring Wascal, and his lady, Seymour, in for acupuncture treatments to support their organs as they continue to age. I'm so grateful to LTAC and Dr. Zook for the added zip to Wascal's step! Thanks for helping keep my bunnies healthy! —Cindy K. |
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